Plastic Vs Steel - Fuel Storage Tanks

If you’re looking to install an oil tank on your property then you will need to decide between a plastic or steel oil tank.

To make life easier, we’ve listed a few of the main pros and cons for each material below.

Steel Tanks

Advantages:

• Steel tanks are a more secure option, with plastic being easier to drill and siphon off oil

• Steel tanks are available with a greater capacity than plastic tanks.

• Resistant to internal and external corrosion

• Priced competitively

• Highly durable and long-lasting - UV resistant and can withstand extreme weather.

• There is also a lot of scope for flexibility within the design of steel fuel tanks. Custom tanks can easily be made in a variety of complex designs

  Disadvantages:

• Steel is much heavier so less easy to manoeuvre

• Cheaper quality steel tanks can corrode over long periods of time

• Steel tanks can be vulnerable at welded seams

• Steel tanks have a much more labour-intensive manufacturing process and are a more expensive material. As a rough rule of thumb, a steel tank from a reputable manufacturer will be about double the cost of a plastic tank in the same capacity.

• There is also a lot of scope for flexibility within the design of steel fuel tanks. Custom tanks can easily be made in a variety of complex designs.

Advantages:

• As it is made of plastic, it does not rust

• Easier to install and manoeuvre

• Because plastic is an insulator, the transfer of heat to the fuel is delayed

  There are positives and negatives to each type of tank so your decision should come down to what will suit your individual property needs

Disadvantages:

• They can become weak from exposure to direct sunlight

• Can be less secure as they are easier to drill and siphon off

• Plastic fuel tanks for the storage of fuel

• Less secure - easier to drill through

Conclusion

There are positives and negatives to each type of tank so your decision should come down to what will suit your individual property and needs.

If you are still unsure of which type of tank is right for you, contact our team on 01360 660264 and someone will assist you.